Director of Academy Finance and Opertions

Overview

About this Role

Work where it matters most, achieve what matters more

Be part of a team where passion meets purpose, as we work together where the challenge is greatest to change the lives and build the futures of children and young people.

A key member of the leadership team, the Director of Academy Finance and Operations will play a critical role in shaping and delivering our financial strategic vision across the Trust. You will oversee the day-to-day operations of the regional and academy finance teams, and work as part of a wider team to deliver on all educational and financial strategic targets.

We are looking for an experienced finance partner with education experience, ideally having worked closely with local authorities and across multi sites. You will be motivated and passionate about delivering an exceptional service to all academies across the Trust.

You will lead on academy financial planning, analysis and decision making to optimise the impact of every £ spent from the Trust's income, to ensure that every school within the Trust is a great place for pupils to learn.

In this role, you will build productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders including local authorities and suppliers. Using excellent communication skills to provide financial guidance and support, as a trusted advisor to various stakeholders across the organisation including senior leadership.

This is a full-time remote role, with the expectation of regular travel to schools/offices throughout the OAT network so you will need to be able to do this reliably (whether by car or other transport) within school hours.

About Ormiston Academies Trust

Our vision is to create a school system where every child thrives, regardless of background. Our people are at the heart of our approach - they are our greatest asset.

There is nothing more important than educating the next generation, and our teams across Ormiston are continuing to undertake excellent work to make sure that the opportunities we provide have the greatest impact for every child and young person. If you join us at Ormiston, whatever your role, you can be sure of a role with purpose and meaning.

Ormiston, where every member of staff enjoys

• The opportunity to build on the legacy of those who came before - being part of one of the longest standing Trusts, created with the sole purpose of enabling children and young people to thrive.
• Working for a Trust nationally recognised for its impact on disadvantaged children - a rewarding, stimulating career where staff are challenged to be the best they can be, for the pupils we are proud to serve.
• Being part of a team and community where you belong - receiving bespoke and holistic support from a well-resourced and ambitious network of experts and professionals that work at the heart of communities.
• A supportive environment to grow your career - an extensive professional development programme, alongside flexible working arrangements and generous benefits.

About you

We are looking for an experienced finance partner with experience working within senior leadership including supporting financial decision making. You will bring expertise in managing significant budgets greater than £100 million across multiple sites, alongside experience and knowledge of public sector procurement and supplier management.

In this role, you will be a strong leader with excellent organisational and management skills, with an ability to interpret and analyse complex data. You will act as a trusted advisor to the CFO, senior executives and academy leadership including Principals, providing expert guidance on financial matters including complex decision making.

You will be a strategic thinker with strong management skills, capable of aligning financial strategies with broader organisational goals.

If you are passionate about making a difference and are ready to lead in a challenging yet rewarding environment, we would love to hear from you.

Benefits

We value your hard work and dedication, and we are committed to ensuring you feel supported, both professionally and personally so that you are in the best position to make the most impact for the children and young people in our schools.

When you join us at Ormiston, you can be certain that your work will have purpose and meaning. You can also expect robust and holistic support from us to enable you to excel in your role.

You will have access to an attractive benefits package including;

• Generous pension and life cover
• Access to health and well-being programmes, including counselling service
• Discounts on retail, travel, and leisure through our benefits platform
• Free and confidential legal, tax and health 24/7 helpline
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible working arrangements

How to apply

If you are interested in exploring this opportunity further, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact Joanne Dawson, Chief Operating Officer at to arrange an informal discussion.

The closing date for applications is 9am on Friday 17 October. Interviews will be held week commencing 3 November.

Early applications are encouraged as we reserve the right to close the vacancy early should a suitable candidate be found.

Safeguarding

Ormiston Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. Ormiston Academies Trust embraces diversity and promotes equality of opportunity. Flexible working opportunities will be considered.

All successful appointments will be subject to suitability checks in accordance with KCSIE, including identity, Right to Work, qualifications, online searches, prohibition check, two references and enhanced DBS check including Children's Barred List.

The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. Guidance on the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the Exceptions Order 1975, which provides information about which convictions must be declared during job applications and related exceptions.